On this day: The First Academy Awards
On May 16, 1929, the first Academy Awards (Oscars) took place at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. 270 people paid $5 for dinner and the ceremony took all of 15 minutes - a far cry from the bloated excess of the…
The Walls of Ston
Although the walls in question are made of stone, the title of this post isn't missing an 'e'. Ston is a town in Croatia which is the proud owner of Europe's longest structure. The walls of Ston are defensive walls…
On this day: The City of Las Vegas was Founded
On May 15, 1905, the city of Las Vegas was founded with the auction of half a square kilometre of land owned by the San Pedro, Los Angeles and Salt Lake Railroad. Initially a pioneer stopover, the first casinos in…
On this day: Talyllyn Railway
On May 14, 1951, the Talyllyn Railway became the first line in the world to be preserved as a heritage railway by volunteers. Trains doubtless run closer to schedule than any other railway in the UK.
On this day: Construction Started on Delhi’s Red Fort
On May 13, 1638, construction began on Delhi's Red Fort. After completion 10 years later the fort served as the residence of the Mughal emperors for a couple of centuries. These days the main residents are a flock of green…
On this day: Florence Nightingale was Born
On May 12, 1820, Florence Nightingale was born in the Italian city which she was named after. Known as 'the lady with the lamp' for her night-time nursing rounds during the Crimean War, there are several statues in her honour,…
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